List the remaining items at the end of a job, assign them and track them to completion.
The last few percent of a job can drag on for weeks. A clear punch list with owners and dates gets it closed.
Walk the site with the client so the list reflects their expectations, not just yours.
11 items. Complete it digitally or on paper, whichever your team prefers.
A kitchen remodel punch walk lists 14 items, including a cabinet door rubbing and missing outlet covers. The trades close 12 in three days; the last two need a part, and the client signs off the following week.
The punch list is the agreed record of what remains before substantial completion turns into final completion and final payment. Assigning each item a trade and a due date stops small fixes like trim, covers and fixtures from stalling the release of retainage.
| Project | Bayview Coffee fit-out, San Diego |
|---|---|
| Item 1, front counter | Chipped laminate corner, carpenter, due June 12, open |
| Item 2, restroom | Grab bar screw cover missing, GC, done |
| Item 3, patio | Wall sconce dead, electrician, open |
| Item 4, back door | Closer slams, GC, verified |
| Client walkthrough | June 10 with owner Jill |
| Close-out | 1 of 4 verified; retainage held for 3 items |
Item 2 is marked done but not verified, so it still counts as open for retainage until Jill checks it on the next walk.
On projects using AIA contract documents, the general conditions in AIA A201 define substantial completion as the stage when the work is complete enough for the owner to occupy or use it for its intended purpose. The architect often issues AIA Document G704, the Certificate of Substantial Completion, with the punch list attached. That certificate usually fixes the date warranties start and when the remaining items must be finished, so the list attached to it should be complete and specific.
At substantial completion.
The contractor and client, sometimes the architect.
As short as possible; set dates.
No, warranty terms continue.
No. A punch item is unfinished or wrong work spotted before handover, while a warranty claim covers a defect that shows up after the owner has accepted the work. Keep them on separate lists so the contractor’s warranty period is not confused with open close-out items.
Many contracts let the owner keep retainage, or a set amount per open item, until each punch item is verified. Write the held amount on the close-out section so both sides agree what releases it. Check the contract and any state prompt-payment rules for limits.
More for the same job
Use the punch list template for the record you need today. To see who clocked in, and when, book a demo of EZTime.